License plate number or description of vehicle and violator if possible.

Date and time of violation.

Your name and phone number.

Penalties for Dumping Under the Texas Litter Abatement Act If a person has been previously convicted of violating this act, that person's punishment will be upgraded to the next highest category for any subsequent violation. For example, for a person with a prior conviction of a Class A misdemeanor, the next conviction will result in a punishment for third degree felony.

Class C Misdemeanor Litter of 15 pounds or less, or a volume of 13 gallons or less.

Class B Misdemeanor More than 15 pounds, but less that 500, or a volume of more than 13 gallons but less than 100 cubic feet.

Class A Misdemeanor
500 pounds or more or a volume of 100 cubic feet, OR litter from a commercial entity weighing more than 5 pounds or having a volume greater than 13 gallons.

How You Can Help

Always dispose of your own litter properly and encourage others to do the same.

Do not transport unsecured debris in the back of a vehicle. Always use a tarp or some other cover. Debris flying out of trucks is subject to the same penalties.

Spread the word to friends and neighbors that illegal dumping is a crime.

Organize volunteer cleanups of illegal dump sites. People are less likely to litter in clean areas.

Write and call your local or county officials and let them know illegal dumping is a concern in your community.

Do not pay roofing or other contractors until they present you with a landfill receipt showing that your waste was properly disposed.

You can also report illegal dumping within the City Limits to the City of DeSoto by calling 469.658.3075. Please include all relevant information listed above.

DeSoto Litter Law Enforcement Policy
In addition, the DeSoto Police Department observes zero tolerance in enforcement of our litter laws. Police and Code Enforcement Officers are constantly on the lookout for anyone who dumps illegally. You can help by reporting violators to the DeSoto Police Department at 972.223.6111. Please have the same information listed above.

Information from the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission and the North Central Texas Council of Governments.